TELEFUNKEN CR 600 – A Classic Mono Cassette Recorder with a Twist

The TELEFUNKEN CR 600 is an amazing offering from the end of the 70s. It blends a mono cassette recorder with a built-in radio, a digital clock, and even an alarm function. It packs a lot into its relatively compact frame, making it an interesting piece for those who appreciate multifunctional retro audio equipment.



The CR 600 sports a typical TELEFUNKEN design of its time—functional, straightforward, and slightly bulky, with dimensions of 320 x 92 x 200 mm. The front panel is dominated by a 24-hour LED clock display that immediately sets it apart from standard cassette recorders. The clock display's adjustable brightness is a nice touch, catering to users who might want to dim the lights for a better nighttime experience.

Its sliding volume control and rotary tuning knob keep the operation old-school and tactile. At the same time, the array of buttons is clearly labeled in German, giving it a distinctly European flair. Despite its mono output, the 3-watt speaker delivers a surprisingly clear sound, making it ideal for casual listening.

For a mono cassette recorder, the CR 600 offers a well-rounded set of features:
Playback and Recording: It effectively covers the basics, with easy-to-access playback and recording controls. The two-track mono recording does not provide stereo sound, but it captures audio adequately, especially for voice or radio recordings.
Microphone Integration: It includes an onboard microphone for direct voice recordings. A simple switch toggles the microphone on or off, making capturing memos or quick ideas on tape convenient.

The automatic tape-stop feature ensures the cassette stops playing when it reaches the end, reducing wear on the tape and heads.

What truly sets the TELEFUNKEN CR 600 apart is its integrated 24-hour digital clock and alarm system. Unlike many other cassette recorders from its era, this model doubles as a bedside alarm clock with versatile wake-up options:
You can choose to wake up to music, a buzzer, or even a pre-recorded cassette. The music alarm can be set to start playing the radio at your preferred station, and the volume can be adjusted beforehand for a gentle or loud awakening.
A snooze button interrupts the alarm for about 9 minutes, a feature that's still beloved in modern alarm clocks.
Automatic Cut-Out Circuit: This feature allows you to set the device to play music for a specified time (up to 59 minutes) before it automatically shuts off. It's perfect for falling asleep to your favorite tunes without worrying about turning off the recorder.

The CR 600 allows users to record radio broadcasts directly onto a cassette. This function, combined with the alarm clock, offers a unique utility: you can schedule a recording of a specific radio show, ensuring you never miss your favorite program. The built-in automatic recording modulation adjusts the audio level, providing optimal sound quality without manual interference.

 

I recall an ad from 1968 which had a small unit with an AM/FM radio, 8 track player, and a small television set. Has anyone ever seen such a unit?

 

I find these all-in-one machines so fascinating. This is a looker for sure. Next step into evolution was to integrate a small television into the device. Did they incorporate a solution for the capstan wheel not denting while the cassette player is waiting for the timer signal?

 

Depending on when this was introduced, it may have actually been made in Germany, before they started outsourcing everything to Asia